Gameday Preview: OKC Thunder aim for bounce back victory vs. LeBron-less Lakers

Contain McGee and Zubac

Recently the OKC Thunder have had trouble containing the opposing center (both starting and reserve). In seven January contests, the opposing centers have scored a combined 168 points on 69 of 113 for 61.1 percent shooting.

In the Lakers last 10 games, center’s JaVale McGee and Ivica Zubac have averaged 15.3 points per game combined. In the earlier meeting this month McGee and Zubac accounted for 23 points. Consequently, that number is one point shy of what centers are averaging versus the Thunder this month.

Paging the OKC Thunder

Oklahoma City’s bench is struggling right now. Over the last seven games, the bench has been outscored 307–205. In January the Thunder bench is averaging 29.3 points per game, third worst league-wide in that time span.

The struggles of the bench can largely be contributed to Dennis Schroder. Aside from his last two games, the German guard has been bad this month, particularly on the defensive end.

Using on/off court statistics in 191 minutes while Schroder has been on the court Oklahoma City’s defensive rating is 123.9. In 155 minutes while Schroder is off the court the Thunder possesses a 95.9 defensive rating.

Schroder’s above stats are for January only.

Matchup of the Game: Lance vs PG

In the Thunder’s first meeting with the Lakers, there were several fun sequences. From my perspective, none were more entertaining than Lance and PG going one-on-one near the end of the first half. The duel between two former teammates was punctuated by Westbrook doing an air guitar celebration, which is Stephenson’s signature celebration.

George and Stephenson guarded each other for eight and 10 possessions respectively. Therefore, don’t expect to see the two forwards take on the assignment of guarding the other for an ample amount of minutes this evening. When the two players do get matched, sit back, relax, and enjoy, because there are sure to be fireworks and entertainment.